Montserrat, Cardona and Salt Mountain Small Group Tour

Discover two of Catalonia's top highlights on this full-day tour from Barcelona: the medieval town of Cardona and the mystical Montserrat mountain. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Barcelona in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, shared with a small group of no more than 8 people. Along the way, you'll learn about the history and culture of Catalonia, Cardona, and Montserrat. First, explore Cardona, known for its stunning Salt Mountain Mines—an unforgettable experience where you’ll step into the depths of this ancient site. Next, journey to Montserrat and visit the Benedictine Monastery, perched high above Catalonia, a place of pilgrimage for centuries. This small group tour offers the perfect escape from the city, combining history, culture, and stunning natural beauty in one day.

1. 1

   Passeig de Gracia

   Pass by

   Begin your tour right from your hotel or apartment in Barcelona. We’ll pick you up, so please make sure to provide us with your exact location. Enjoy an overview of Barcelona city along the route, pass by Catalunya Square, Barcelona Cathedral, Passeig de Gracia and the Gaudi Houses, such as the Batllo and the Pedrera, and many other highlights.

2. 2

   Montana de Montserrat

   30 min

   We invite you to take an easy walk of around 30 min to enjoy one of the most astonishing views of the natural park.

3. 3

   Abadia De Montserrat

   1.5 hours

   Get on the road and head to the mystic mountain of Montserrat. This natural park, with its very peculiar peaks, protects the spiritual essence of Catalonia. For almost 1,000 years, a Benedictine community has lived in these mountains located 60 km away from Barcelona. Visit the Basilica of Montserrat, house of the serene image of the Black Virgin of Montserrat (the famous “Moreneta”), the saint patron of Catalonia, a polychrome Romanesque carving of the 12th century. On the way, listen to interesting stories about Catalonia and its bounding to the holy mountain, scene of pilgrims since ancient times and part of the route to Santiago de Compostela. Your guide will share important information to understand the heritage you will discover during the tour.

4. 4

   Abadia De Montserrat

   1 hour

   Marvel at the center of the pilgrimage and the basilica within the mountains.

5. 5

   Cardona

   30 min

   Visit the medieval town of Cardona, a citadel famous for resisting Napoleon and for its salt mines.

6. 6

   Castell De Cardona

   1 hour

   While Iberian remains have always been linked to the richness of the Saline Valley, the origins of Cardona are in its Castle. The village, which grew from the fortification, is today incredibly well preserved. Besides the medieval charm of its streets and squares, you will also find examples of Gothic and Romanesque churches, chapels and civilian architecture. The geographical location of the fortress, on the top of the mountain, perfectly meets its historical need to defend the access to the salt mines. The structure also enjoys a privileged view of the Cardener River Valley. From the XI to the XV century, the castle served as the residence of some of the noblest lineages of lords in the country. As a defensive structure for the salt mines, the castle endured several sieges throughout its history.

7. 7

   Montana de Sal

   1 hour

   This protected area is 1,800m long, 600m wide and has an area of 100ha. The site offers amazing views of the valley, old mine galleries, and a display of the mineral extraction machinery once used in this area. Have fun learning about the history of salt exploitation, the geology, mineralogy and botany of this region.

8. 8

   Sant Jeroni

   30 min

   Reach the peak of the holy mountain to enjoy a bird's eye view of the entire Montserrat Monastery and of the natural park. On clear days, you will enjoy uninterrupted views of the whole of Catalunya.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Small group tour of max. 8 guests

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.